Column: MSTC committed to student success

Sue Budjac

I recently read an article that asked if it still pays to get a college degree. In my humble opinion, you bet it does!

During the recent recession, nearly nine in 10 Mid-State Technical College, MSTC, graduates were successful in finding employment within six months of graduation. What's more, associate degree graduates earn nearly $10,000 more per year than those with a high school diploma. That's $400,000 over a 40-year career!

MSTC degrees provide a strong foundation for a future in the local workforce. For example, the MSTC Associate Degree Nursing program, accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, or NLNAC, has produced more than 1,000 graduates with National Council Licensure Examination, NCLEX, pass rates higher than state and national averages.

Other MSTC programs enjoy similar distinction through their accreditation: Health Informatics and Information Management program, CAHIIM, Automotive Technician program, NATEF, Respiratory Therapist program, CoARC, and Surgical Technologist program, ARC/STSA. These examples of quality are mirrored throughout the more than 100 career programs and certificates MSTC offers to residents of central Wisconsin.

MSTC is committed to student success. We attempt to alleviate as many obstacles as possible in each student's quest for an MSTC education. For example, our Academic Success Center offers free support to provide people with the skills they need to succeed in college.

If money is a barrier, financial aid may be an option: 80 percent of MSTC students receive some kind of financial aid. The MSTC Foundation also offers scholarships and other forms of assistance that can aid students in overcoming financial barriers.

We also recognize many of our students have employment, family and other obligations. We address these in part by offering a variety of flexible scheduling options, including evening and online courses.

This support does not end once a student is enrolled. Our counselors also work with students on a wide range of topics to facilitate student success, such as personal matters, mental health needs and support for students with disabilities. For example, instructors can refer struggling students to counselors early in the semester so the student has time to seek assistance and improve classroom performance. The college also significantly expanded the use of tutoring services to nurture student success. Drop-in tutoring labs are available at all MSTC locations. Students who have used tutoring services have said they were incredibly valuable.

All MSTC employees strive to offer positive learning experiences. The outcome is a high-quality education that provides our graduates of every walk of life with the skills and knowledge they need to be competitive in the workforce. Employer feedback confirms this in that 95 percent of employers said they were satisfied with the education of MSTC graduates.

To learn how MSTC can provide you with the support and direction you need to get off to a good start, call 888-575-MSTC, stop by an MSTC location near you, or visit www.mstc.edu.

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Column: MSTC committed to student success

I recently read an article that asked if it still pays to get a college degree. In my humble opinion, you bet it does!

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